It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
